From Fashion to Footlights: Clare McCulloch’s Unexpected Path to the Stage

Showtime with Andrew G | Theatre Podcast Australia

Clare McCulloch’s journey into acting is one defined by courage, rediscovery, and an unwavering love for storytelling. From an early age, Clare felt a natural connection to performance. Whether staging impromptu shows in the living room or standing on a stage under the open sky, the act of telling stories made sense to her in a way that nothing else did. Despite her early confidence and comfort in front of an audience, fear held her back from pursuing acting professionally. The thought of forgetting lines or not being “good enough” lingered in the background, quietly pushing her in other directions. She followed a career in fashion design and management, but the desire to act never truly disappeared.

🎭 The Girl On the Train
🗓️ 9 May 2025 to 25 May 2025
📍 Mountview Theatre, Macedon
🎟️ themountplayers.com

From May 9th to May 25th, 2025, Mountview Theatre presents a gripping new production of The Girl on the Train, promising an unforgettable night of theatre filled with suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists.

Based on Paula Hawkins’ international best-selling novel and the hit film adaptation, this psychological thriller follows Rachel Watson, a troubled woman reeling from heartbreak and addiction. Every day, she takes the same train, watching the lives of others unfold from afar—until one morning, she witnesses something shocking. When a young woman she often sees from the window goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in a dark mystery where nothing is quite what it seems. As memories fade and reality slips away, she is pulled deeper into a web of secrets and lies.

Co-directed by Frank Harvey and Germaine Garbutt, this production features commanding performances and a brooding, immersive design that brings Rachel’s inner turmoil hauntingly to life. The staging is both innovative and intimate, culminating in a breathtaking second act that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. A standout moment is the climactic train sequence—brought vividly to life through atmospheric lighting, pulse-pounding sound design, and ingenious set transitions.

Set in the heart of Macedon, the historic Mountview Theatre offers a uniquely intimate viewing experience. Known for its strong community spirit and close performer-audience connection, Mountview’s cosy environment is the perfect backdrop for this emotionally charged story. The Girl on the Train is a must-see event for lovers of thrilling, character-driven drama.

🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime

CLAIRE MCCULLOCH
Claire McCulloch has always been drawn to the spotlight. Whether it was putting on backyard performances as a child or immersing herself in the emotional depth of a character, the magic of storytelling has long been a part of who she is. Although her early career took her into the fashion industry—studying design and working in management—her love for acting never faded into the background.

In 2020, everything shifted when Claire stepped onto the set of NBC’s La Brea, filmed in Heskett, Victoria. Cast as a background actor, she spent four unforgettable months on set—an experience that rekindled a passion she could no longer ignore and set her on a brand-new path.

Determined to pursue acting seriously, Claire enrolled in a full-time program at Film and Television International and has continued to hone her craft with guidance from respected industry mentors. She has since brought her energy and presence to a range of productions, including background roles in Better Man and Shantaram, featured performances in short films like Lap Time, Mr. Forgetful, and Dice’n with Death, as well as several television commercial campaigns.

Now a long-time resident of the Macedon Ranges, Claire is stepping into her most powerful role to date: Rachel Watson in The Girl on the Train with The Mount Players. With determination, vulnerability, and a deep love for storytelling, Claire is embracing a new chapter—proof that it’s never too late to follow your dream.